In a tense turn of events at the presidential election petition tribunal today, supporters of former Niger Delta militant Asari Dokubo have issued a stern warning, vowing to unleash chaos if the tribunal rules against President Bola Tinubu. As the nation awaits the tribunal’s decision, tensions run high in the heart of the capital.
Earlier today, a group of youth, adorned in black and red attire bearing the ex-militant’s name, arrived at the court premises in a show of support for Mr. Tinubu. Armed with placards and filled with fervor, they chanted slogans and danced, making their presence known to all in the vicinity.
Speaking exclusively to The Gazette, Ogele Commander, one of the protesters, urged the tribunal to exercise “wisdom” in their ruling to ensure President Tinubu remains in office. He voiced concerns over the potential for division within the nation, emphasizing that others should patiently await their turn for leadership.
Mr. Commander expressed their group’s determination, stating, “If they say they will cause problems, we will give them a problem.” He gestured with a walkie-talkie in his right hand, underlining their readiness for action.
This demonstration is not the first time that Asari Dokubo has led his group to the tribunal in a show of solidarity with President Tinubu, who faces petitions challenging his victory in the last presidential election. The tribunal, which had previously hosted Mr. Dokubo, had set today, September 6, as the date for the crucial ruling.
Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, both presidential candidates in the last election, are contesting the legitimacy of President Tinubu’s victory. Mr. Abubakar garnered 6.9 million votes, while Mr. Obi secured 6.1 million votes. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), under the leadership of Mahmood Yakubu, declared Mr. Tinubu the winner on March 1.
The opposition candidates are basing their challenge on several grounds, including President Tinubu’s failure to secure 25 per cent of the vote in the Federal Capital Territory and allegations related to past money forfeiture linked to drug trafficking.
As the nation awaits the tribunal’s decision, the presence of Asari Dokubo’s passionate supporters outside the court raises concerns about potential unrest and the implications it may have on the country’s stability. All eyes are now on the tribunal as it prepares to make a landmark ruling that could shape the nation’s political landscape.
